Blog by Kristina Kasparian Veni Etiam Photography

The Venezia Collection: A timeless balance between decay and wonder

28/4/2020

It's no secret to those who know me well, not even to those who know me a little:
Venice is my soul city.

A place that pulls on my heartstrings and just doesn't let go. A place where I prefer to roam alone, so I can focus on Her. A place that feeds me with melancholy and quietude in equal parts.

It's no secret that Venice is my deepest inspiration; even my shop's name is partly dedicated to Her.

And so are several (many) photographs in the collection.

Below are the prints in the Venezia Collection, full of nostalgia and wonder.

Each print has its own unique title and caption (in English and French) and is available in the size and finish of your choice.

Eerie Lagoon

The unique beauty of the city that emerges from the sea, outlasting time and high tides
La beauté unique de la ville qui émerge de la mer, qui survit le temps et les marées

The Winged Lion

Guarding the square, the lagoon, its wishes and secrets
Gardien dela place, le lagon, ses souhaits et ses secrets

Dopo la pioggia

A quiet Venice awakens after a gentle morning rain
Une Venise tranquille se réveilleaprès la douce pluie du matin

Campiello dei Trevisani

A morning in the neighborhood of Cannaregio, Venice
Un beau matin dans le quartier de Cannaregio, Venise

Belonging

Sometimes, I like to imagine that Venice belongs not to people,
but to the elements, to its creatures, statues and relics.
Parfois, j'aime imaginer que Venise n'appartient pas aux gens,
mais aux éléments, à ses créatures, statues et reliques.

Canarégio

In the heart of the oldest sestiere of Venice
Au coeur du plus ancien "sestiere" de Venise

Sunday in Burano

Local life in a quiet 'Campiello'
La vie locale dans un quartier charmant

My Color Palette

Colors that make your heart sing
Des couleurs qui font chanter le coeur

San Marco

The winged lion and the winged pigeon – both rule over St Mark’s square
Le lion et le pigeon -les deux règnentsur la place Saint-Marc

Rio della Misericordia

On the atmospheric fringes of the
Cannaregio quarter in Venice, Italy
La périphérie atmosphérique du quartier
de Cannaregio à Venise, Italie

Soaring Heart

My freest days and happiest days but also my most melancholy days.
This city liberates emotions
Mes jours les plus libres et heureux mais aussi les plus mélancoliques.
Cette ville libère des émotions

Never Tire of You

My lens (and my heart) will never tire of you
Mon objectif (et mon coeur) ne se lassera jamais de toi

Soul City

You are more than a place, and I can never have enough, from any angle
Tu est plus qu'une ville et je n'en ai jamais assez, de n'importe quel angle

Burano Bliss

A splash of color, a dash of life
Une touche de couleur, une dose d’énergie

Painted Blue

The idyllic pastel palette of Burano, Venice
La palette idyllique de couleurs pastel à Burano, Venise

Fondamenta dei Mendicanti

You walk and walk, until you reach the edge of the Lagoon
Marcher sans cesse, jusqu’à ce qu’on atteignele bord de la Lagune

La Bella Rustica

To be alone with you
Pour être seule avec toi

Golden Afternoons

My favorite time of the day, in my favorite place in the world
Mon moment préféré de la journée, à mon endroit préféré au monde

Watching You Find Your Way

"There are no wrong turnings. Only paths we had not known we were meant to walk."
Il n'y a pas de mauvais tournants, seuls des chemins que nous étions destinés à marcher."

Cupole

The breathtaking view of the Lagoon and the five domes of San Marco
Une vue imprenable sur la lagune et les cinq dômes de San Marco

Laguna Mia

A moody reflection of gondolas under a bridge
Reflet mélancolique de gondoles sous un pont

Palazzo Ducale

The Gothic palace where East meets West, where Land meets Lagoon and open Sea
Le palais gothique où l'Est rencontre l'Ouest, où la Terre rencontre la Lagune et la Mer

Il Moro

Traces of the Republic's mercantile past
Traces du passé mercantile de la République

Riflessioni

Her colors always seem more vibrant after the rain
Ses couleurs semblent toujours plus vives après la pluie

Calle della Chiesa

There is so much beauty in Venice, one must remember to look up and in every direction
Il y a tellement de beauté à Venise, il faut se rappeler de regarder dans toutes les directions

Corte della Comare

A blissful afternoon in colorful Burano, Italy
Un après-midi merveilleux dans la ville colorée de Burano, Italie

Clearing Skies

The beauty in the simple sight of a clearing sky reflected in rain puddles
La simple beauté d’un ciel dégagé, reflété dans les flaques de pluie

Burano Boot

Sometimes, it's the simplest and most unexpected sights that capture your attention
Parfois, ce sont les choses les plus simples et les plus inattendues qui attirent votre attention

Egidio

Burano’s deeply rich colors and one happy little bird
Les couleurs riches de Burano et unpetit oiseau heureux

Verso la Fondamenta

Ochre yellow and deep lilac
Ocre et lilas profond

Burano Colors

For a lover of colors, there is no more perfect place
Pour un amateur de couleurs, il n'y a aucun meilleur endroit

Laundry Day

Picturesque everyday scenes of Burano
Les scènes quotidiennes pittoresques à Burano

Pretty Thoughts

A Sunday stroll through Burano’s streets, without worry of rain
Notre promenade du dimanche dans les rues de Burano, sans souci de pluie

Return Again

My favorite view of Venice, different upon each return
Ma vue préférée de Venise, différente à chaque retour

So there you have it, Venice through my lens.
Got a favorite? Let me know in a comment!

From my heart to yours,
Kristina

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The Greece Collection: Mediterranean home decor

28/4/2020

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Ever felt so inspired and peaceful on a trip that you just wanted to bring that beautiful feeling home with you?

That's what the Greece Collection represents for me (and, based on your feedback, for many of YOU!)

Staring at images of blue seas, whitewashed architecture and flowers in effortless bloom has the power to transport us.

Below are the prints in the dreamy Greece Collection, ready to warm up your walls and to make your home office a happier place.

Each print has its own unique title and caption (in English and French) and is available in the size and finish of your choice.

All My Wishes

After a steep climb to the monastery, I cast all my wishes into the deep eternal sea
Après une montée raide vers le monastère, je lance mes souhaits dans la mer profonde et éternelle

Agios Stefanos

A taste of heaven on the northwestern edge of Corfu
Un air de paradis sur le côte nord-ouest de Corfou

Cape Drastis

The dramatic cape, inaccessible and undisturbed
Le cap spectaculaire, inaccessible et tranquille

Afionas

A colorful village on the clifftops of Corfu
Un village coloré sur les falaises de Corfou

Beauty on the Horizon

It is a blessing when there is so much beauty to appreciate
before the distant, serene horizon
Quelle bénédiction de pouvoir apprécier tant de beauté
devant un horizon paisible

No One Knows

What lies beyond? No one knows
Qu'est-ce qui se trouve de l’autre côté? Personne ne le sait

Morning Air

All was quiet as the old town slept
Tout était calme pendant que la vieille ville dormait

Blue and White

The traditional Greek colors and its stunning sea
Les couleurs traditionnelles grecques et sa mer magnifique

Understated Beauty

The luring charm of old palaces
Le charme attirant de vieux palais

The Perfect Sea

The sea, the sea, the perfect sea!
La mer, la mer, la mer parfaite!

Seafront

Faded from sunshine and salty air
Délavée par le soleil et l’air salé

Garden Village on the Clifftops

Idyllic Afionas perched above the sea
Joli Afionas perché au-dessus de la mer

Kerkyra

Old Corfu Town, with all its rustic charm
La vielle ville de Corfou, avec tout son charme rustique

Palazzina

Could I buy a summer house here and watch the sunset over the sea?
Puis-je passer mes étés ici à regarder le coucher du soleil sur la mer?

So there you have it. On grey days, we can all daydream of breathtaking Greek landscapes!

Got a favorite in the Greece Collection? Leave a comment and let me know!

From my heart to yours,
Kristina

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Hidden messages: Hopeful captions behind my prints

10/4/2020

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Une version en français est disponible

When something inspires me to reach for my lens, I always hope that this observation or emotion will, in turn, inspire you. Sometimes, I sneak messages in the titles or captions of my photographs (which I include on a customized insert with every small or medium-sized print you order). Those descriptions serve as an extra reminder for me of what I thought at the time I snapped the photo, but, often, I enjoy putting them there in case they might inspire you.

At one of my shows last year, a visitor asked me whether these captions appear in my online shop, because they would help him find something representative to offer as a gift. At the time, only the titles were online, but I'm happy to announce that, since then, I've worked hard to add each of the unique descriptions to the listings in my shop!

During this emotional time in our lives, at the brink of this strange and surreal spring, I wanted to share some of the photographs that have a hopeful title or caption.

Some of them are from 2015, but they still resonate with our current state of mind.

If you're looking for a gift to cheer up a loved-one, or want to treat yourself to something uplifting, I hope you'll find inspiration in these words and images.

The titles and captions are all bilingual (English and French). To learn more about each one, simply click on the image, or write to me to ask a question.

Bloom Where Unlikely

A reminder that it doesn’t take much for a flower to bloom,
even in the roughest circumstances
Un rappel qu’une fleur peut s’épanouir facilement,
même dans des circonstances irrégulières

The Impossible Spring

A reminder that unfavorable weather eventually changes, and even the slowest springs eventually come
Un rappel que le temps défavorable finit par changer et que même les printemps les plus lents finissent par arriver

Trust the Path

Every step is a prerequisite for what comes next, even if it doesn’t seem so at the time
Chaque pas est necessaire pour ce qui va suivre, même si cela ne parait pas tout de suite

Stand Tall

You're special
Tu es une personne spéciale

What Goes Down Must Go Up Again

What matters is what is light, not what is dark
Ce qui compte, c’est la lumière, pas les ténèbres

Chance

When one window closes, another one opens
Quand une fenêtre se ferme, une autre s’ouvre

Patience

Open your heart and your eyes, and windows will open too
Ouvre ton coeur et tes yeux, et les fenêtres s'ouvriront aussi

Strength & Hope

The sky and the waves, in fervent conversation
Le ciel et la mer dans une conversation fervente

Dream Big

Let your dreams take flight
Laissez vos rêves prendre leur envol

Unlocked

Something truly delightful awaits you.
Une merveilleuse surprise vous attend.

Incomplete Without You

An ode to a gentle and selfless soul without whom life just wouldn’t be the same.
Dédié à une âme douce et généreuse sans qui la vie ne serait pas pareille.

Je t'aime

When thoughts of you arise at random street corners.
Des pensées de toi qui m’envahissent au coin d’une rue.

After the Rain

Sometimes life becomes even more beautiful when it has been graced with raindrops
Parfois la vie devient encore plus belle après avoir connu la pluie

You Have Time

Don't rush, stay awhile and be sure to return
Prends ton temps, reste et reviens

Abundance

The more we focus on life’s riches, the more riches arise
Plus nous nous concentrons sur les richesses de la vie, plus les richesses se multiplient

The Way

Follow your dreams, wherever they may lead
Suivez vos rêves, où qu'ils vous mènent

Fede (Faith)

Have faith: She is watching over you
Gardez votre foi: Elle veille sur vous

Up!

It will be a season of peace and balance
Ce sera une saison de paix et d’équilibre

Minimalist, brutalist, optimist

Like a shadow, like a light
Comme une ombre, comme une lumière

Navy Blue (Me & You)

Every thought of you begins and ends with the ocean
Chaque pensée de toi commence et se termine avec l'océan

Look Up

Optimism lies in the surprise of a single open window
L'optimisme réside dans la surprised'une seule fenêtre ouverte

On Angels' Wings

Sometimes, it takes patience and faith to fly
Parfois, il faut de la patience et de la foi pour voler

One Step At a Time

It's not about how fast you climb - it's just about climbing.
Ce n’est pas la vitesse de la montée qui compte. Il faut juste continuer de monter.

Simplicity

When the most evocative moments are the simplest ones
Quand les moments les plus évocateurs sont les plus simples

I hope this selection inspired you. Prints that ship flat (8x8, 12x12, 8x10, 8x12 inches) are packaged with their title and caption. If you order a larger print and wish for the insert to be included, just leave a note at checkout. Lastly, you always have the option of adding a personalized note if your order is a gift.

Stay safe and stay inspired!

From my heart to yours,
Kristina

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The Côte d'Azur collection is here!

19/11/2019

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The time has come to reveal the new Côte d'Azur collection, and I am SO excited!

Creating a new collection is one of the most fun yet time-consuming aspects of my shop! There are SO many steps involved, and each one is done with careful thought and feeling.

It all starts with choosing a destination based on what the heart craves. Then, exploring that place mindfully, slowly, keeping in tune with how my senses react, how the light makes me feel, and whether I am pulled to stay. Capturing feeling through photography requires precision, experimentation, creativity, inner peace and hours of physical work while I chase interesting angles, reflections, perspectives, lights, patterns and balance.

Then comes the most painstaking part of all - sorting among the thousands of photos to narrow it down to the few hundreds that will be adjusted and edited over the next days and weeks. I get to know them as I work on them, already get attached to a few favorites, and share them with you little by little on Instagram or Facebook. Once I have my favorite hundred or so (!), I write blogs about the place and share my impressions or tips with you. (Psssst! If you haven't read my two Côte d'Azur blog posts yet, you can open them in a separate window by clicking here and here!)

But not all of my favorite photographs make the cut for the collection. They have to be scrutinized for imperfections and distractions first. I fine-tune them, test-print them, hold them in my hands and up to the light, frame them and get to know them even better. You'd be surprised what the eye catches on paper that it missed on a screen! This leads me to fine-tune them even further and print again.

Once I'm happy with the collection, I give each one a title and caption in English and French so you will know where it is and why I reached for my lens. Often, I sneak a message for you in the caption, so the photograph might speak to you even more once you read the back of it.

I photograph the photographs - which is not an easy task! I try to show you how they look framed, unframed, in various sizes and ratios. I edit the photos of the photos, and create a bunch of different graphics I'll be able to use in my online shop or social media.

After a few weeks of this process, I then share them with my dear VIPs who are subscribed to my newsletter. These are individuals who support me and follow me wherever my travels and heart may lead! I am so grateful to them that I give them 20% off the collection and first dibs on it before I add it to my shop. This often allows them to get limited edition or one-of-a-kind pieces! Once my VIPs get first pick, the collection is launched globally.

Lastly, I add the images to the web shop and Etsy shop, fine-tune the keywords so they can be found in searches. I print, package and ship them, so they can be a part of your day, your home, your inspired thoughts, memories and dreams of future travels.

By the end of this sequence, I need another vacation! And yet your words, orders and reviews make it all so fulfilling and worth it!

Now you have a better idea of why I always say, "from my heart to yours".

So without further ado, I present to you my Côte d'Azur collection, which is quite possibly the collection I am most proud of so far!

Canopy of Color

An unexpected little haven found in a narrow lane (Nice)

Balance

When there’s balance in my photographs, I know there is balance in me (Nice)

The Poetry of Windows

I’ll always have a soft spot for windows and their subtle poetry (Nice)

Patience

Open your heart and your eyes, and windows will open too (St-Paul de Vence)

Mediterranea

The colors and feelings of the Mediterranean are with me, always (Nice)

A Light to Remember

And all the day's delays culminated in witnessing this glorious light (St-Paul de Vence)

Nissa la Bella

“La tiéu mar d’azur, Lou tiéu cièl pur” (Nice)

Ethereal Beauty

Contemplating how a moment can be both vast and tiny (Eze)

Pressing Pause on Summer

No longer summer, not yet fall (Nice)

What we see is who we are

What we look for is who we will become (Nice)

Chasing the Muse

Finding inspiration in the simplest sights, in the footsteps of many great artists
(St-Paul de Vence)

You Have Time

Don't rush, stay awhile and be sure to return (Antibes)

All Dressed in White

Aged by weather and life's tides (Antibes)

Chaises bleues

Contemplative, hopeful, peaceful and melancholy - there are chairs for all moods
(Nice)

Sunbathing in October

Colors make the best memories (Menton)

Low Season

Where Land meets Sea is where I wish to be (Nice)

I'll Stay

The Promenade that I long to return to again and again (Nice)

Après-midi

Because your color changes with each hour of the day (Nice)

Mixed Feelings

The constant push and pull between peace and longing (Nice)

Storybook Pages

Sometimes the biggest dreams are evoked by the tiniest villages perched above the Sea
(Eze)

The Bells at Sea

When the bells toll, the Sea will listen (Eze)

Perched

Often, we need to take a step back to take it all in (Eze).

Pretty in Pink

How a simple hue can make the heart sing (Nice)

Mindful Meandering

An opus of everyday beauty (Nice)

St-Paul de Vence

If you lose your way, look around, feel grateful and begin again (St-Paul de Vence)

Growth in Light and Shadows

There cannot be growth without light, and there cannot be light without shadows
(St-Paul de Vence)

Antipolis

That feeling of easing into a place, as though you've always known it (Antibes)

Port de Nice

May you always find a safe harbour in which to call it a day (Nice)

Climb Up, Look Down

No matter how steep the climb, always look back to see how far you've come (Menton)

Place of Dreams

Do you know, dear Nice, how many people love you and dream of you? (Nice)

Palette niçoise

Sometimes it feels as though a color should be named after a place (Nice)

À l'aise à Eze

Found, without feeling lost (Eze)

Morning Memories

The beauty of places is how they change throughout a single day, and how
we change too (Nice)

Vieux Nice

About to open or about to close. It's all a matter of perspective. (Nice)

Order any of these prints and frames using your special VIP coupon by following this link!

Postcards

I've also printed a whole bunch of mini square prints (4x4 inches) which can be displayed casually, framed in a mosaic frame, or sent as cards! They are printed on eggshell cardstock with a white border and a blank back, so you can write a personalized note.

I only produce postcards once a year during the holiday season, so grab your favorites before they disappear by contacting me or visiting me at the Nutcracker market in Montreal between November 28th and December 8th.

The Côte d'Azur collection is full of color, texture, perspective and feeling. I hope it will resonate with you as much as I loved creating it for you!

Let me know in a comment which one is your favorite!

From my heart to yours,
Kristina

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Etsy Montreal Printemps 2019 - Etsy Montreal Spring Show 2019

6/5/2019

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Etsy Montreal Marché de Printemps Technopole Angus / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

The Spring Show organized by the Collectif Créatif Etsy Montréal is one of the highlights of my year.

Hosted in the historic Locoshop Angus, the show gathers a curated selection of 100+ high-quality local brands (artists, designers, makers) in various categories, ranging from jewelry, to paper goods, home decor, gourmet food, baby stuff, skin care, fashion accessories and more!

It's impossible not to fall in love with something. Try, I dare you!

If you missed this epic spring show, do not fret. The Collectif Créatif Etsy Montréal will be hosting at least 4 more shows in 2019, with different vendors each and every time. In fact, the team truly prides itself of offering a different mix of brands to shoppers each time. If you don't want to miss any, your best bet is to follow the page on Facebook for updates!

I really enjoyed snapping these photos of the event, although it was challenging to navigate the huge crowds at times! Do you recognize any of your favorite brands?

Etsy Montreal Marché de Printemps Technopole Angus / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Pink Clementine / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Abricotine / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Collage / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Collectif Créatif Etsy Montreal / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Uekibachi / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Alice Bertin Ceramiste / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Amango Cacao / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Sofs Designs / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

L'Atelier Cheval de Bois Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Bar à plantes Mtl / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Abricotine / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

La Pincée / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Meemoza / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Isa Kapsaskis / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography

Veni Etiam Photography / 2019 / Collectif Créatif Etsy Montréal

Have you ever been? Is that where you and I met? Leave a comment and let me know!

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Made Me Look: Bicicletta

6/5/2019

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My Mom loves this print.

She was with me in northern Italy when I took this photograph. She initially hadn't realized I had stopped in my tracks during our late morning stroll. What had caught my eye? The parked bicycle, of course, but also the texture of the wall and the gentle morning light. It was almost lunchtime, said the echoing church bells. It was such a beautiful spring day, full of love and promise. and fresh Italian lakeside air.

Maybe your Mom also loves bicycles, simple scenes, life in Italy. Or maybe YOU do. Who knows. "Bicicletta" is in my shop for whoever might be inspired by her.

Try it on paper or canvas to showcase the texture of the scene.

From my heart to yours.

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The Nutcracker Market: Shop my booth in advance

18/11/2018

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From November 29th to December 9th 2018, I will be participating in a well-known Christmas market at the Palais des Congrès in Montreal for the second year in a row: the Marché Casse-Noisette / Nutcracker market. It is my biggest show of the year, in the sense that I will have a large booth to present my world to you - all those colors, feelings and inspiring scenes that make you connect with Veni Etiam!

This year, I thought I'd offer a sneak peek at some of the large pieces that will be showcased in my booth, to give you a special chance at reserving them in advance at a special VIP rate (10% off).

Why? These large specialty pieces take over 2 weeks to produce, so by reserving them early, you make sure you have them before the holidays. It's also a way of thanking you (and rewarding you!) for being bold with your decor decisions, and for being part of my community.

Here are the large pieces you could reserve right now (until November 26th):

Li Prisuddi (Italy)
Satin print 16x24 inches
White wood frame included
Framed: $125 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Deity (Japan)
Satin print 11x14 inches
White rustic wood frame included
Framed: $100 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Winter on the Plateau (Canada)
Brushed aluminum (metal) disk 12x12 inches
Floater frame and wire attached to the back (ready to hang)
$119 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Converging Boats (Spain)
Epoxy resin brushed aluminum (metal) art, 20x30 inches
Floater frame and wire attached to the back (ready to hang)
$499 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Unmistakable Sight (Canada)
Brushed aluminum (metal) disk 10x10 inches
Floater frame and wire attached to the back (ready to hang)
$109 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

New Life in Hiroshima(Canada)
Satin print 12x18 inches
Black wood frame included
Framed $100 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Bicicletta (Italy)
Fine-art print 16x20 inches
White frame included
Framed $120 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Lincoln Park (USA)
Satin print 11x14 inches
White rustic wood frame included
Framed: $100 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Painted Blue (Italy)
Satin print 12x18 inches
White wood frame included
Framed $100 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

All My Wishes (Greece)
Acrylic 10x10 inches
Floater frame and wire attached to the back (ready to hang)
$139 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Mirror Waters of Levico (Italy)
Brushed aluminum (metal) art 12x18 inches
Floater frame and wire attached to the back (ready to hang)
$189 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Palais des Congrès (Canada)
Brushed aluminum (metal) disk 12x12 inches
Floater frame and wire attached to the back (ready to hang)
$119 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Unmistakable Sight (Canada)
Fine art print 11x14 inches
Black wood frame included
Framed $89 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Vintage Vieux-Montréal (Canada)
Brushed aluminum (metal) art 11x14 inches
Floater frame and wire attached to the back (ready to hang)
$149 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Two Hearts, limited edition (Canada)
Limited print run with license from sculptor Jim Dine, 12x12 inches
White wood frame included
Framed $80 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

Malinconia (Italy)
Fine art print 11x14 inches
Black wood frame included
Framed $89 CAD
Reserve before November 26th and receive 10% discount

If any of these large ready-to-hang or framed pieces have your name on it, contact me right away to reserve it at 10% off. (Please note that the item must be paid in full in advance).

In addition to these large pieces, I will be selling hundreds of local and international prints, metal prints and postcards (new this year!), for which you will have the option of purchasing an inexpensive but high-quality frame. I will also be taking your custom orders (production time: 2 weeks due to the holiday rush) and will also have tons of gift items like coasters, pouches, notebooks, magnets and gift certificates available. Be sure to check out my Holiday Gift Guide for a preview!

Also new this year, the FIRST customer of every day will have the chance to open the advent calendar and will receive a free gift or a discount applicable in my booth on that day only. Mark your calendar to swing by at 11 am between November 29-December 9th to be the first at my booth! Entry is FREE!

To get an early start on your shopping, visit my shop or my Etsy shop and use the coupon code INMTL to pick up your purchase to save on shipping fees and delays.

I can't wait to help you find inspiring decor items this holiday season. See you soon!

From my heart to yours.

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Etsy Made in Canada: Montreal September 2018

4/10/2018

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Well, that's a wrap!

For our September show, anyway. The next Etsy Montréal show will take place in November (22-24) at the Windsor Station, and then there will be one more holiday show in December (15-16) at the Théâtre Denise-Pelletier in Hochelaga.

Last week, I shared with you a little bit about why I love participating in AND co-organizing the Etsy Montreal shows.

If you couldn't make it to the show to enjoy the atmosphere and shop from incredible local shops, here is a taste of what it was like! I snuck away from my booth for a few moments here and there to snap a few photos of the event.

To see my full album, visit my Facebook page.

Mark your calendar for the two next Etsy Montreal shows, will you?

Etsy Montreal Team. Photo credit Julien Lauzon Photography

From my heart to yours.

Photography is hard work! Please remember to credit Veni Etiam Photography if sharing these event photos!

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7 artistes que j'ai hâte de voir au marché Etsy Montréal automne 2018

27/9/2018

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Read the English version

Nous voilà à la fin de septembre déjà!

Chaque automne, Etsy Canada et ses équipes régionales de créateurs passionnés organisent un marché d'automne dans une trentaine de villes canadiennes. C'est le marché Etsy Made in Canada (qui s'appelle aussi «Etsy Fait au Québec» dans notre province).

Le weekend du 29 et 30 septembre au Locoshop Angus à Montréal, plus de 100 créateurs et designeurs seront réunis sous un même toit pour exposer leurs bijoux, papeterie, arts visuels, articles de décoration, accessoires de mode, aliments, articles pour enfants, et produits pour la peau faits localement avec amour!

Pour d'autres photos, visitez ma page Facebook ou cet article de blog. Partage avec crédit SVP.

J'ai eu la chance de découvrir cette communauté dès le lancement de Veni Etiam en 2015. J'ai fait du bénévolat pour l'équipe pendant quelques marchés et j'ai ensuite été recrutée comme l'une des leaders d'équipe. Ce que j'aime le plus dans mon travail au sein de cette équipe, c'est de constater à quel point notre communauté est incroyablement talentueuse et d'encourager son épanouissement. Non seulement nos exposants sont des superbes créateurs de produits fait-main, mais ils sont également des entrepreneurs super inspirants avec des parcours de vie intéressants.

Leurs parcours de vie et leurs préparatifs sont partagés cette semaine sur Instagram et Facebook dans le cadre de notre défi médias sociaux. Vous pouvez nous suivre avec le mot clic #EtsyMtlChallenge2018. Je vous promets que vous serez inspirés par ce que ces artistes ont à partager sur leur métier et leurs boutiques!

Lorsque nous faisons la sélection d'artisans pour nos marchés, le processus est minutieux et long. Nous évaluons près de 500 candidatures à chaque fois et marquons celles qui se distinguent selon notre liste de critères, qui comprend l’originalité, l’image de marque, la qualité des photos soumises et la pertinence pour nos clients en fonction de la saison. Cette première évaluation est déjà difficile à cause du calibre des candidatures que nous recevons. Nous devons ensuite passer par au moins 300 candidatures, catégorie par catégorie, avec un jury composé de membres de l'équipe. Nous le faisons en personne, souvent jusqu'aux petites heures du matin, puis nous continuons à peaufiner notre sélection avec une discussion en ligne.

À chaque édition, chacun des organisatrices a au moins un coup de coeur pour des boutiques qui viennent de se joindre à notre communauté ou qui ont vraiment amélioré leur marque en tant que les produits proposés et comment ces marques se présentent.

Voici mes 7 coups de coeur pour cette édition:

Veinage

Joannie Houle Art

The Softies - Tout doux

Pease

Lilot Poterie

Elisa Signature

Endearing Knits

Si vous êtes à Montréal ce week-end, passez découvrir le marché Etsy Montréal! Je serai là moi aussi avec mon art mural, mes photographies encadrées et mes accessoires de déco, y compris certains de mes nouveaux plateaux. Comme plusieurs de ces artistes, je vais également prendre des commandes personnalisées et exposer plusieurs nouveautés qui ne sont pas encore dans mes boutiques en ligne!

Voici la liste complète d'exposants et voici les détails de l'événement.
L'entrée est gratuite et les premiers 30 invités en ligne chaque matin à 10hrs recoivent un sac plein de cadeaux et de coupons rabais!

Si vous n'êtes pas à Montréal, vérifiez si un marché Etsy Made in Canada aura lieu dans votre région! Je vous encourage fortement de découvrir ce marché pour encourager les créateurs d'ici et notre économie québécoise.

Avez-vous une boutique préférée dans votre communauté? Laissez le nom en commentaire ci-dessous pour nous la faire découvrir!

Photos d'événement par Veni Etiam Photographie

De mon coeur au vôtre.

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Seven artists I can't wait to see at the Etsy Montreal Fall Show 2018

27/9/2018

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Lire la version française ici!

It's that time of year again!

Every September, Etsy Canada and its regional teams of passionate leaders host an annual fall show in almost 30 cities across the country. It's the Etsy Made in Canada market (which also goes by the name "Etsy Fait au Québec" in our province.)

On September 29th and 30th at the Locoshop Angus in Montreal, over 100 makers and designers will be gathered under one (historical) roof to exhibit their locally-made jewelry, paper goods, home decor items, fashion accessories, food, children's items, skin care products and more!

For more of my event photos, visit my Facebook page or this blog post. Please credit when reposting!

I was fortunate to discover this scene almost as soon as I launched Veni Etiam back in 2015. I volunteered for the team for a few shows and was later recruited as one of the team leaders. What I love most about working on this leadership team is witnessing how incredibly talented our community is, and encouraging it to thrive even further. Not only are our participating vendors creative artists, but they are also inspiring entrepreneurs with unique life journeys.

Those unique life journeys and behind the scenes moments are being shared on Instagram and Facebook this week as part of our seven-day social media challenge. You can follow us with the hashtag #EtsyMtlChallenge2018. I promise you you'll be inspired by what these artists have to share about their craft and their shops.

When we curate the collection for each of our shows, the process is meticulous and long. We go through close to 500 applications each time and mark the ones that stand out above the rest in terms of a list of criteria including originality, branding, photo quality and appropriateness for our shoppers depending on the season. That first cut doesn't even make a dent because of the caliber of applications we tend to receive. We then have to go through at least 300 applications, category by category, with a jury of team members. We do this in person, often until the wee hours of the morning, and then we continue to fine-tune our selection through an online discussion process.

Every edition, each of the organizers ends up falling in love with shops that are either new to our community or who have really upped their game in terms of the products they offer and how they present themselves as a brand.

Here are 7 artists I cannot wait to see at our market this weekend!

Veinage

Joannie Houle Art

The Softies - Tout doux

Pease

Lilot Poterie

Elisa Signature

Endearing Knits

If you are in Montreal this weekend, stop by our show! I'll be there with my photographic wall art, framed prints and decor accessories, including some of my new trays. Like many of these artists, I will also be taking custom orders and exhibiting lots of new items that are not listed in my online shops!

Here is the full list of participating vendors and here are the full event details.
It's FREE to enter and the first 30 guests in line each day get a special goodie bag!

If you're not in Montreal, have a look whether an Etsy Made in Canada show is coming near you this weekend! I promise you it's a special feeling to support local makers and your local economy!

Do you have a favorite shop in your community? Leave a comment below and spread the love.

Event photos by Veni Etiam Photography

From my heart to yours.

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Perfect for Mom

11/5/2018

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Mothers' Day is just around the corner and, although most Moms will tell you they don't need any gifts, they surely appreciate being spoiled with pretty things that will inspire them year-round.

Mothers' Day is especially touching to me for all those women who are not (yet) moms, but wish it wholeheartedly. Let's take a moment to think of them and send them love.

Having heard from MANY of you in person or through your written requests, I know which items often get chosen as gifts for Mom. I also know which items my own Mom adores!

So, without further ado, here is a visual list of gift ideas for Mom, either on Mothers' day or "just because". Clicking on each image will take you to my Etsy shop, because Etsy is sponsoring a Canada-wide free shipping promotion until May 14th!

"Bloom where unlikely" lined notebook. *NEW!*

"Which would you choose" (Cuba) & "Blue & White" (Greece) duo *NEW!*

"I have this thing with blue" (Montreal)

"Tango" pencil case or pouch

"Lincoln Park" (Chicago)

"August Rain" (Amsterdam)

"My color palette" (Italy) *NEW!*

"Riomaggiore" (Italy)

"Colores de la Habana" notebook *NEW!*

"Trani" (Italy) *NEW!*

"Morning Mingling" (Montreal)

"Bloom where unlikely" (Montreal)

"A Perfect Sunday Afternoon" pencil case or pouch (Wales)

"Layers of Beauty" notebook (Cuba)

"Li Prisuddi" (Italy)

"Bicicletta" (Italy)

"Elegance" (Montreal)

"Plateau in Sepia" (Montreal)

"La Cubana" (Havana)

"Like a dream" (Havana)

"All my wishes" acrylic (plexiglass) art (Greece)

Montreal coaster set

"London Calling" (UK)

"Laundry Day" (Italy)

"Painted Blue" (Italy)

"Magnolia" (Montreal)

"Incomplete without you" (Toronto)

"Burano Boot" (Italy)

"Rue Cherrier" (Montreal)

"Elegance" (Montreal)

If you're in Montreal, come see me on Mothers' Day Weekend (Saturday + Sunday) at the Etsy Montreal show at the Locoshop Angus. Details here. It's free! I'll have ONE of each of these with me. Reserve it if it's perfect for Mom!

From my heart to yours.

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Smitten with Italy

15/2/2018

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“Open my heart and you will see, graved inside of it, 'Italy!'” – Robert Browning

Whether you have been following me for some time or you have just stumbled upon my world, you may have noticed that Italy plays a huge part in my collection, my writings and my days.

Why?

What's the deal with Italy? What gave rise to this "obsession"? How is Italy part of my life story? What's my favorite spot in Italy? All these questions and MORE are answered in an interview I did for the lovely Heather Carlson from "Smitten Italy" as part of our new collaboration.

Heather Carlson is a fellow italophile. We "met" in a magical place called Instagram, connected by our shared passion for Italian travel, food and culture. I stumbled upon Heather's shop of whimsical Italy-inspired goods, and later discovered that she is also behind "Merry Feast Travels", organizing culinary tours and offering travel planning services to any beginner or seasoned Italy-bound traveler.

As two individuals with Italy in their hearts, we have teamed up to offer a Veni Etiam x Smitten Italy collection of art prints in her lovely shop, and we have interviewed one another about our journey, our love for Italy and our work.

Head to the Merry Feast Travels blog to read my full interview about why I'm #smittenwithitaly

To find out more about why Italy is infused into my creative work, and to learn some Italy-related quirks about me that you probably did not know before, head to the Merry Feast Travels blog to read the full interview!

My mission with Veni Etiam has always been to inspire you, and help you find a piece of art that represents your own journey.

If Italy resonates with you as it does with me, I think you'll be excited to discover the collection that is now live in the Smitten Italy shop!

Which one is your favorite? Heather and I would love to know!

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this series where I will interview Heather about her story and her tips for travellers to Italy. Don't miss out on goodies: follow us!

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Your favorite wall art this season

11/10/2017

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The seasons are changing, and with it your projects, moods and color palette.

Now and then, I love to share with you which pieces of the collection are the bestsellers of the season. It's always fun for me to discover which scenes and colors catch your eye more than others, and how this changes over time. Some of your favorites seem to be carved in stone (you'll surely recognize these "signature pieces" because they're my favorites too!), but others sometimes take me by surprise.

Here are your top 20 favorite wall art pieces this season:

Which would you choose? (Havana, Cuba)

Bloom where unlikely (Montreal, Canada)

Converging Boats (Basque Country, Spain)

A Perfect Sunday Afternoon (Llandudno, Wales)

Afionas (Corfu, Greece)

Bicicletta (Riva del Garda, Italy)

Canarégio (Venice, Italy)

Colores de la Habana (Havana, Cuba)

On the Riverbend (Colchester, England)

Incomplete without you (Toronto, Canada)

Jacques-Cartier in Rain and Fog (Montreal, Canada)

Parked (Montreal, Canada)

Plateau Duo (Montreal, Canada)

No One Knows (Corfu, Greece)

Li Prisuddi (Puglia, Italy)

Painted Blue (Burano, Italy)

La Cubana (Havana, Cuba)

Rue Cherrier (Montreal, Canada)

Technopole (Montreal, Canada)

This Old Town (Montreal, Canada)

If any of these favorites inspired you, you could shop here or on Etsy, and as usual you have the option to choose between paper, canvas, metal, acrylic or wood as your finish of choice. Not sure about the options? Here is a handy visual summary!

From my heart to yours.

P.S. I hope we're connected on Instagram, 'cause that's where I share the most!

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Happiness is handmade: Footage from Etsy Made in Canada

27/9/2017

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This past weekend, one of the most scorching September weekends on record in Montreal, Etsy Montreal hosted the fourth edition of Etsy Fait au Québec, a nation-wide event (called Etsy Made in Canada in other provinces) that showcases the talents of Canadian artists, designers and crafters and encourages the population to shop local.

As one of the leaders of the Etsy Montreal team and as a participating vendor with Veni Etiam Photography, various tasks in planning for this event had filled the pages of my agenda for months. It is always an amazing cause to celebrate (and a bit of a relief) when over 7000 visitors come through our doors and happily discover the creations of over 100 artists. The energy in the room is almost indescribable, the smiles all around are truly contagious, and the feedback that comes from vendors and shoppers is uplifting. The show is a true community endeavor, and puts forward so many important values that strive to make our community - and our future - better.

During the event, I snuck away from my booth to snap some candid action shots of shoppers and vendors interacting. On my Facebook page, you can find the full album of photos (nearly 200 of them) of the event, with artists' tagged in the images and a full vendor list for you to peruse.

But if you've only got a minute or two, here's a video compilation of some of the shots.

Photo & video by Veni Etiam Photography. Music by bensound.uk

As a vendor, participating in Etsy Made in Canada / Fait au Québec is one of my favorite parts of the year. I am always uplifted and humbled by the support, enthusiasm and love my work receives from attendees and fellow artists alike.

I am not quite sure where the dream came from, this dream to make inspiring art for your homes and your heart. It just sort of snuck up on me, like the best dreams do, I suppose. A couple of years into having launched my business, some of my absolute favorite places have found a place on your walls, in your homes, in your daily routines. What could I possibly say to that? It's amazing. And what could I possibly say about the truly inspiring exchanges I have had with other incredible members of the artistic community? For everything you have taught me and continue to teach me, thank you!

From my heart to yours.

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Etsy Made in Canada - Fait au Québec 2017

21/9/2017

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French version

Graphic art by Katy Lemay

It's mid-September, although the weather gods are still totally convinced it's mid-July (fine by me!). And mid-September means one thing for certain every year: it's time for Etsy Made in Canada and our local edition Etsy Fait au Québec Montréal.

Over 100 artists, designers and makers from the Montreal area will gather under one (historic) roof to showcase and sell their incredible products with the community, which is becoming increasingly interesting in buying local.

Here are 12 artists I cannot wait to see this weekend,
as I am totally in love with their products and artistic vision.

(Clicking on each artist's image will take you to their Etsy shop. Do it, you know you want to!)

1. Mathilde Cinq-Mars Illustrations

2. Maksym

3. Paskaleidoscope

4. Portes Bonheur

5. Pepito le Chat

6. The Hat with No Feather

7. Stéphanie Fauteux Céramiste

8. Le Cubicule

9. Meemoza

10. Us & Coutumes

11. Andrea Shelley Designs

12. Atelier Cheval de Bois

To see the full list of vendors, follow this link.
To RSVP to the event (it's free!), go here.

Veni Etiam Photography will also be there all weekend long with tons of new items in the Montreal collection, the brand new Havana collection, magnets and gift items, coffee tables, a surprise new product (come see for yourself!) and new frames available on the spot in the exact sizes of my prints! I'll have reduced prices on prints and custom orders, so if you have questions about sizing or anything else, feel free to reach out even before the event!

P.S. If you're curious, this post belongs to the theme #TradeThursday, part of the Etsy Montreal Social Media Challenge. The artists who are participating as vendors in the annual Etsy Fait au Quebec (Made in Canada) market are encouraged to share behind the scenes posts as they prepare for the show. Follow along with all of us on Instagram with the main hashtags #etsyfaitauquebecmtl and #etsymtl.

We all hope to see you there!

From my heart to yours.

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